“Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving…” Col.4.2 NKJV
In my prayers for others, I have asked the Lord for some provision or protection only to realize that He has already given it or that He, as any good father, will certainly do it. My request for something naturally turns into thanksgiving for it. Perhaps we would do better to surround every request with thankfulness. Could we not just as easily say, “Thank you this day for our daily bread or thank you for delivering us from evil? “ 11/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Monday, November 30, 2009
There are times when the best way to ask for something is to give thanks for it before you receive it.
“Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving…” Col.4.2 NKJV
In my prayers for others, I have asked the Lord for some provision or protection only to realize that He has already given it or that He, as any good father, will certainly do it. My request for something naturally turns into thanksgiving for it. Perhaps we would do better to surround every request with thankfulness. Could we not just as easily say, “Thank you this day for our daily bread or thank you for delivering us from evil? “ 11/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
In my prayers for others, I have asked the Lord for some provision or protection only to realize that He has already given it or that He, as any good father, will certainly do it. My request for something naturally turns into thanksgiving for it. Perhaps we would do better to surround every request with thankfulness. Could we not just as easily say, “Thank you this day for our daily bread or thank you for delivering us from evil? “ 11/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, November 27, 2009
Of all the things that can keep us awake at night, nothing can compare to wakefulness overwhelmed with gratitude.
”At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You…” Psalm 119:62 NKJV
Who has not waked at midnight to the worries of this world? But have we not also cracked our eyes in the dark and smiled secure that God was watching over our concerns. I often lay my head down and ask God to keep my family and friends safe until morning. But sometimes I think He wakes me up in the middle of the night to keep watch with Him in my prayers. How precious are those midnight conversations. I am so grateful for You dear Friend for You are sweet sleep to us because we know you never sleep. 11/26/2009 Conversations Within ts
Who has not waked at midnight to the worries of this world? But have we not also cracked our eyes in the dark and smiled secure that God was watching over our concerns. I often lay my head down and ask God to keep my family and friends safe until morning. But sometimes I think He wakes me up in the middle of the night to keep watch with Him in my prayers. How precious are those midnight conversations. I am so grateful for You dear Friend for You are sweet sleep to us because we know you never sleep. 11/26/2009 Conversations Within ts
Of all the things that can keep us awake at night, nothing can compare to wakefulness overwhelmed with gratitude.
”At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You…” Psalm 119:62 NKJV
Who has not waked at midnight to the worries of this world? But have we not also cracked our eyes in the dark and smiled secure that God was watching over our concerns. I often lay my head down and ask God to keep my family and friends safe until morning. But sometimes I think He wakes me up in the middle of the night to keep watch with Him in my prayers. How precious are those midnight conversations. I am so grateful for You dear Friend for You are sweet sleep to us because we know you never sleep. 11/26/2009 Conversations Within ts
Who has not waked at midnight to the worries of this world? But have we not also cracked our eyes in the dark and smiled secure that God was watching over our concerns. I often lay my head down and ask God to keep my family and friends safe until morning. But sometimes I think He wakes me up in the middle of the night to keep watch with Him in my prayers. How precious are those midnight conversations. I am so grateful for You dear Friend for You are sweet sleep to us because we know you never sleep. 11/26/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, November 26, 2009
“Prayers of thanksgiving bring even greater blessings than the things we are thankful for.” Anonymous
“Gather us together…to give thanks to Your holy name, To triumph in Your praise.” 1 Chronicles 16:35 NKJV
In our divided world, it is a precious moment when something brings us together. Thanksgiving is just that among those who profess faith, not the day but the act. Voices rise before the God of glory and if only to say grace before a meal, many people are joined in a simple and singular act of giving thanks. In these precious moments our fragmented fellowship is given a glimpse of heaven’s promise as every eyes turns in the same direction intent on the same purpose and we acknowledge our Maker as the singular cause of all blessings. 11/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
In our divided world, it is a precious moment when something brings us together. Thanksgiving is just that among those who profess faith, not the day but the act. Voices rise before the God of glory and if only to say grace before a meal, many people are joined in a simple and singular act of giving thanks. In these precious moments our fragmented fellowship is given a glimpse of heaven’s promise as every eyes turns in the same direction intent on the same purpose and we acknowledge our Maker as the singular cause of all blessings. 11/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Prayers of thanksgiving bring even greater blessings than the things we are thankful for.” Anonymous
“Gather us together…to give thanks to Your holy name, To triumph in Your praise.” 1 Chronicles 16:35 NKJV
In our divided world, it is a precious moment when something brings us together. Thanksgiving is just that among those who profess faith, not the day but the act. Voices rise before the God of glory and if only to say grace before a meal, many people are joined in a simple and singular act of giving thanks. In these precious moments our fragmented fellowship is given a glimpse of heaven’s promise as every eyes turns in the same direction intent on the same purpose and we acknowledge our Maker as the singular cause of all blessings. 11/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
In our divided world, it is a precious moment when something brings us together. Thanksgiving is just that among those who profess faith, not the day but the act. Voices rise before the God of glory and if only to say grace before a meal, many people are joined in a simple and singular act of giving thanks. In these precious moments our fragmented fellowship is given a glimpse of heaven’s promise as every eyes turns in the same direction intent on the same purpose and we acknowledge our Maker as the singular cause of all blessings. 11/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
“A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment.” John Wooden
“But I say to you…” Mt.5.22
These words of Jesus echo often in the halls of self-justification. He gently but soberly corrects our misunderstanding of how good we think we are. We may believe that we are basically good people but Christ knows better. He explains that though we may not have murdered, violence boils in the caldron of our thoughts. But love His admonishments for the Son does not come to condemn us, He is only showing us our need of His offered grace. 11/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
These words of Jesus echo often in the halls of self-justification. He gently but soberly corrects our misunderstanding of how good we think we are. We may believe that we are basically good people but Christ knows better. He explains that though we may not have murdered, violence boils in the caldron of our thoughts. But love His admonishments for the Son does not come to condemn us, He is only showing us our need of His offered grace. 11/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
“A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment.” John Wooden
“But I say to you…” Mt.5.22
These words of Jesus echo often in the halls of self-justification. He gently but soberly corrects our misunderstanding of how good we think we are. We may believe that we are basically good people but Christ knows better. He explains that though we may not have murdered, violence boils in the caldron of our thoughts. But love His admonishments for the Son does not come to condemn us, He is only showing us our need of His offered grace. 11/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
These words of Jesus echo often in the halls of self-justification. He gently but soberly corrects our misunderstanding of how good we think we are. We may believe that we are basically good people but Christ knows better. He explains that though we may not have murdered, violence boils in the caldron of our thoughts. But love His admonishments for the Son does not come to condemn us, He is only showing us our need of His offered grace. 11/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
“Put your ear down close to your soul and listen hard.” Anne Sexton
“For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Mt.5.20 NKJV
If the religious right and the religious left of Christ’s day, failed to measure up, it may just be that religion itself falls short of what God wants from us. Why is that? Well certain aspects of religion focus only on compliance to some moral code and Jesus has made it clear that His Father doesn’t want just a surface compliance to a set of rules; He desires our heart. And, everyone knows that when your heart is truly in something, even keeping a rule is transfigured into something genuine. One man is faithful to his wife but inwardly lusts; another has eyes only for his bride. The former has her husband’s body the later has both body and soul. Both men keep the rule but one its letter the other its spirit. Until Christ enters the heart and changes it, I am afraid compliance may the best that people have to offer. 11/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
If the religious right and the religious left of Christ’s day, failed to measure up, it may just be that religion itself falls short of what God wants from us. Why is that? Well certain aspects of religion focus only on compliance to some moral code and Jesus has made it clear that His Father doesn’t want just a surface compliance to a set of rules; He desires our heart. And, everyone knows that when your heart is truly in something, even keeping a rule is transfigured into something genuine. One man is faithful to his wife but inwardly lusts; another has eyes only for his bride. The former has her husband’s body the later has both body and soul. Both men keep the rule but one its letter the other its spirit. Until Christ enters the heart and changes it, I am afraid compliance may the best that people have to offer. 11/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Put your ear down close to your soul and listen hard.” Anne Sexton
“For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Mt.5.20 NKJV
If the religious right and the religious left of Christ’s day, failed to measure up, it may just be that religion itself falls short of what God wants from us. Why is that? Well certain aspects of religion focus only on compliance to some moral code and Jesus has made it clear that His Father doesn’t want just a surface compliance to a set of rules; He desires our heart. And, everyone knows that when your heart is truly in something, even keeping a rule is transfigured into something genuine. One man is faithful to his wife but inwardly lusts; another has eyes only for his bride. The former has her husband’s body the later has both body and soul. Both men keep the rule but one its letter the other its spirit. Until Christ enters the heart and changes it, I am afraid compliance may the best that people have to offer. 11/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
If the religious right and the religious left of Christ’s day, failed to measure up, it may just be that religion itself falls short of what God wants from us. Why is that? Well certain aspects of religion focus only on compliance to some moral code and Jesus has made it clear that His Father doesn’t want just a surface compliance to a set of rules; He desires our heart. And, everyone knows that when your heart is truly in something, even keeping a rule is transfigured into something genuine. One man is faithful to his wife but inwardly lusts; another has eyes only for his bride. The former has her husband’s body the later has both body and soul. Both men keep the rule but one its letter the other its spirit. Until Christ enters the heart and changes it, I am afraid compliance may the best that people have to offer. 11/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, November 23, 2009
“I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.” Albert Einstein
“Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments…” Mt.5.19 NKJV
We may wonder why Christians would change dietary laws in light of these words of Christ. The child often watches the grown up and wonders if they contradict their own instructions. For example, a father may tell his son to always use the back door when coming in the house. It may then seem a contradiction to them when dad uses the front door. Of course, the child doesn’t know that dad has installed a security system on the front door and they are too short to reach the keypad and disarm it. This might illustrate why certain Old Testament practices were not brought into the New. The apostles were not breaking and teaching others to break Old Testament sacrifice laws when they explained Jesus as the final sacrifice for all time. 11/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
We may wonder why Christians would change dietary laws in light of these words of Christ. The child often watches the grown up and wonders if they contradict their own instructions. For example, a father may tell his son to always use the back door when coming in the house. It may then seem a contradiction to them when dad uses the front door. Of course, the child doesn’t know that dad has installed a security system on the front door and they are too short to reach the keypad and disarm it. This might illustrate why certain Old Testament practices were not brought into the New. The apostles were not breaking and teaching others to break Old Testament sacrifice laws when they explained Jesus as the final sacrifice for all time. 11/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
“I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.” Albert Einstein
“Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments…” Mt.5.19 NKJV
We may wonder why Christians would change dietary laws in light of these words of Christ. The child often watches the grown up and wonders if they contradict their own instructions. For example, a father may tell his son to always use the back door when coming in the house. It may then seem a contradiction to them when dad uses the front door. Of course, the child doesn’t know that dad has installed a security system on the front door and they are too short to reach the keypad and disarm it. This might illustrate why certain Old Testament practices were not brought into the New. The apostles were not breaking and teaching others to break Old Testament sacrifice laws when they explained Jesus as the final sacrifice for all time. 11/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
We may wonder why Christians would change dietary laws in light of these words of Christ. The child often watches the grown up and wonders if they contradict their own instructions. For example, a father may tell his son to always use the back door when coming in the house. It may then seem a contradiction to them when dad uses the front door. Of course, the child doesn’t know that dad has installed a security system on the front door and they are too short to reach the keypad and disarm it. This might illustrate why certain Old Testament practices were not brought into the New. The apostles were not breaking and teaching others to break Old Testament sacrifice laws when they explained Jesus as the final sacrifice for all time. 11/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, November 21, 2009
“Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ…” Rom.9.5 NIV
“…until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” Mt.5.18
There was a season in the history of God’s people when a stone temple was an integral part of worship and service to God. That season has passed, not away but into maturity. God has chosen in Christ, to dwell in our hearts not in stone temples. We may look at much of the Old Testament as seed and the New Testament as mature plant. The New does not replace the Old even as the adult does not replace the child. One grows from the other. The Old Covenant was the child, the new Covenant the mature adult. Why is this important? Well, just as the mature plant needs its roots, New Testament believers need the rich heritage of the Old Testament saints. 11/19/2009 Conversations Within ts
There was a season in the history of God’s people when a stone temple was an integral part of worship and service to God. That season has passed, not away but into maturity. God has chosen in Christ, to dwell in our hearts not in stone temples. We may look at much of the Old Testament as seed and the New Testament as mature plant. The New does not replace the Old even as the adult does not replace the child. One grows from the other. The Old Covenant was the child, the new Covenant the mature adult. Why is this important? Well, just as the mature plant needs its roots, New Testament believers need the rich heritage of the Old Testament saints. 11/19/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ…” Rom.9.5 NIV
“…until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” Mt.5.18
There was a season in the history of God’s people when a stone temple was an integral part of worship and service to God. That season has passed, not away but into maturity. God has chosen in Christ, to dwell in our hearts not in stone temples. We may look at much of the Old Testament as seed and the New Testament as mature plant. The New does not replace the Old even as the adult does not replace the child. One grows from the other. The Old Covenant was the child, the new Covenant the mature adult. Why is this important? Well, just as the mature plant needs its roots, New Testament believers need the rich heritage of the Old Testament saints. 11/19/2009 Conversations Within ts
There was a season in the history of God’s people when a stone temple was an integral part of worship and service to God. That season has passed, not away but into maturity. God has chosen in Christ, to dwell in our hearts not in stone temples. We may look at much of the Old Testament as seed and the New Testament as mature plant. The New does not replace the Old even as the adult does not replace the child. One grows from the other. The Old Covenant was the child, the new Covenant the mature adult. Why is this important? Well, just as the mature plant needs its roots, New Testament believers need the rich heritage of the Old Testament saints. 11/19/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, November 20, 2009
"Hate the sin and love the sinner." Mahatma Ghandi
“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. Mt.5.17 NKJV
Some believe the God of the Old Testament to be wrathful and the God of the New, as loving and merciful. Christ is telling us that this is nonsense. The New covenant under Christ does not contradict the Old Covenant; it completes it. God demonstrated both His hatred of sin and His love for the sinner at Calvary. Christ did not abrogate the just condemnation of the Law He accomplished its righteous demands for us. 11/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
Some believe the God of the Old Testament to be wrathful and the God of the New, as loving and merciful. Christ is telling us that this is nonsense. The New covenant under Christ does not contradict the Old Covenant; it completes it. God demonstrated both His hatred of sin and His love for the sinner at Calvary. Christ did not abrogate the just condemnation of the Law He accomplished its righteous demands for us. 11/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
"Hate the sin and love the sinner." Mahatma Ghandi
“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. Mt.5.17 NKJV
Some believe the God of the Old Testament to be wrathful and the God of the New, as loving and merciful. Christ is telling us that this is nonsense. The New covenant under Christ does not contradict the Old Covenant; it completes it. God demonstrated both His hatred of sin and His love for the sinner at Calvary. Christ did not abrogate the just condemnation of the Law He accomplished its righteous demands for us. 11/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
Some believe the God of the Old Testament to be wrathful and the God of the New, as loving and merciful. Christ is telling us that this is nonsense. The New covenant under Christ does not contradict the Old Covenant; it completes it. God demonstrated both His hatred of sin and His love for the sinner at Calvary. Christ did not abrogate the just condemnation of the Law He accomplished its righteous demands for us. 11/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, November 19, 2009
“We must radiate success before it will come to us.” Earl Nightingale
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Let me do good in the world today dear Lord. Let me know goodness too. When I pray for Your Kingdom to come, let me at least open the doors by opening my heart. Awaken me Lord Jesus, to every occasion for goodness; to express Your goodness in a simple smile, a kind word, a beneficial deed. Let me not only reflect your presence, let me to radiate it--to know such oneness with You, so that when other are with me, they are truly with You. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Let me do good in the world today dear Lord. Let me know goodness too. When I pray for Your Kingdom to come, let me at least open the doors by opening my heart. Awaken me Lord Jesus, to every occasion for goodness; to express Your goodness in a simple smile, a kind word, a beneficial deed. Let me not only reflect your presence, let me to radiate it--to know such oneness with You, so that when other are with me, they are truly with You. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
“We must radiate success before it will come to us.” Earl Nightingale
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Let me do good in the world today dear Lord. Let me know goodness too. When I pray for Your Kingdom to come, let me at least open the doors by opening my heart. Awaken me Lord Jesus, to every occasion for goodness; to express Your goodness in a simple smile, a kind word, a beneficial deed. Let me not only reflect your presence, let me to radiate it--to know such oneness with You, so that when other are with me, they are truly with You. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Let me do good in the world today dear Lord. Let me know goodness too. When I pray for Your Kingdom to come, let me at least open the doors by opening my heart. Awaken me Lord Jesus, to every occasion for goodness; to express Your goodness in a simple smile, a kind word, a beneficial deed. Let me not only reflect your presence, let me to radiate it--to know such oneness with You, so that when other are with me, they are truly with You. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
“We can't go around measuring our goodness by what we don't do…and who we exclude....
.... we've got to measure goodness by what we embrace…and who we include.” Chocolat (the movie)
“Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” Mt.5.15 NKJV
Many Christians are hidden within the four walls of organized religion. This is pretty much hiding your light under a basket. Apart from the workplace, there is little interaction between most Christians and there non-Christian neighbors. If we do not spend time with people whose beliefs differ from our own, how will they ever witness the beauty of God in Christ? Remember the criticism of the aloof Pharisees about Christ. "This man receives sinners and eats with them.” How can a disciple be a disciple and not do as the teacher has done? 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” Mt.5.15 NKJV
Many Christians are hidden within the four walls of organized religion. This is pretty much hiding your light under a basket. Apart from the workplace, there is little interaction between most Christians and there non-Christian neighbors. If we do not spend time with people whose beliefs differ from our own, how will they ever witness the beauty of God in Christ? Remember the criticism of the aloof Pharisees about Christ. "This man receives sinners and eats with them.” How can a disciple be a disciple and not do as the teacher has done? 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
“We can't go around measuring our goodness by what we don't do…and who we exclude....
.... we've got to measure goodness by what we embrace…and who we include.” Chocolat (the movie)
“Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” Mt.5.15 NKJV
Many Christians are hidden within the four walls of organized religion. This is pretty much hiding your light under a basket. Apart from the workplace, there is little interaction between most Christians and there non-Christian neighbors. If we do not spend time with people whose beliefs differ from our own, how will they ever witness the beauty of God in Christ? Remember the criticism of the aloof Pharisees about Christ. "This man receives sinners and eats with them.” How can a disciple be a disciple and not do as the teacher has done? 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” Mt.5.15 NKJV
Many Christians are hidden within the four walls of organized religion. This is pretty much hiding your light under a basket. Apart from the workplace, there is little interaction between most Christians and there non-Christian neighbors. If we do not spend time with people whose beliefs differ from our own, how will they ever witness the beauty of God in Christ? Remember the criticism of the aloof Pharisees about Christ. "This man receives sinners and eats with them.” How can a disciple be a disciple and not do as the teacher has done? 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
“my eyes were blinded by the light. I couldn’t see the stars anymore.” Edward Cullin
“You are the light of the world.” Mt.5.14 NJKV
I remember nights when my dad would come in from patrolling Alabama’s highways; he would always shine his flashlight into my room to see if everything was safe and secure. The light would hit me in the eyes and I would be temporally blinded by it. Sometimes well meaning Christians shine the light of faith in such a way that it blinds the unbelieving to the truth rather than helping them to see it. Instead of shining the light in someone’s eyes, we might try letting our good works shine forth God’s glory. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
I remember nights when my dad would come in from patrolling Alabama’s highways; he would always shine his flashlight into my room to see if everything was safe and secure. The light would hit me in the eyes and I would be temporally blinded by it. Sometimes well meaning Christians shine the light of faith in such a way that it blinds the unbelieving to the truth rather than helping them to see it. Instead of shining the light in someone’s eyes, we might try letting our good works shine forth God’s glory. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
“my eyes were blinded by the light. I couldn’t see the stars anymore.” Edward Cullin
“You are the light of the world.” Mt.5.14 NJKV
I remember nights when my dad would come in from patrolling Alabama’s highways; he would always shine his flashlight into my room to see if everything was safe and secure. The light would hit me in the eyes and I would be temporally blinded by it. Sometimes well meaning Christians shine the light of faith in such a way that it blinds the unbelieving to the truth rather than helping them to see it. Instead of shining the light in someone’s eyes, we might try letting our good works shine forth God’s glory. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
I remember nights when my dad would come in from patrolling Alabama’s highways; he would always shine his flashlight into my room to see if everything was safe and secure. The light would hit me in the eyes and I would be temporally blinded by it. Sometimes well meaning Christians shine the light of faith in such a way that it blinds the unbelieving to the truth rather than helping them to see it. Instead of shining the light in someone’s eyes, we might try letting our good works shine forth God’s glory. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, November 16, 2009
“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it” Benjamin Franklin
“…but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?” Mt.5.13 ESV
While I do not believe the Church has lost all its effectiveness in American, certain actions have certainly hurt our ability to positively influence society. My generation witnessed the failure of Christians to stand up and some even stood up on the wrong side, during the civil rights era. Every time we fail to follow the directives of Jesus, our witness suffers. It is hard to make up for a poor service record. This should make each of us think hard about what our words and actions say to those around us. Each of us individually reflects the testimony of the whole. 11/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
While I do not believe the Church has lost all its effectiveness in American, certain actions have certainly hurt our ability to positively influence society. My generation witnessed the failure of Christians to stand up and some even stood up on the wrong side, during the civil rights era. Every time we fail to follow the directives of Jesus, our witness suffers. It is hard to make up for a poor service record. This should make each of us think hard about what our words and actions say to those around us. Each of us individually reflects the testimony of the whole. 11/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it” Benjamin Franklin
“…but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?” Mt.5.13 ESV
While I do not believe the Church has lost all its effectiveness in American, certain actions have certainly hurt our ability to positively influence society. My generation witnessed the failure of Christians to stand up and some even stood up on the wrong side, during the civil rights era. Every time we fail to follow the directives of Jesus, our witness suffers. It is hard to make up for a poor service record. This should make each of us think hard about what our words and actions say to those around us. Each of us individually reflects the testimony of the whole. 11/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
While I do not believe the Church has lost all its effectiveness in American, certain actions have certainly hurt our ability to positively influence society. My generation witnessed the failure of Christians to stand up and some even stood up on the wrong side, during the civil rights era. Every time we fail to follow the directives of Jesus, our witness suffers. It is hard to make up for a poor service record. This should make each of us think hard about what our words and actions say to those around us. Each of us individually reflects the testimony of the whole. 11/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, November 14, 2009
“Keep company with good men, and you'll increase their number” Italian Proverb
“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Mt.5.12 ESV
The whole of life is opportunity to choose our response to trial and suffering. Life always comes to us in the little choices. This makes it possible for choice not circumstance to determine what we embrace with our heart. Because of this, we may bitterly or joyfully walk life’s twists and turns. The apostle assured us that all who name Christ would suffer persecution. And, when persecution comes, we always have before us the power to rejoice and be in the company of the glad or to complain and be in the company of the sad. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
The whole of life is opportunity to choose our response to trial and suffering. Life always comes to us in the little choices. This makes it possible for choice not circumstance to determine what we embrace with our heart. Because of this, we may bitterly or joyfully walk life’s twists and turns. The apostle assured us that all who name Christ would suffer persecution. And, when persecution comes, we always have before us the power to rejoice and be in the company of the glad or to complain and be in the company of the sad. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Keep company with good men, and you'll increase their number” Italian Proverb
“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Mt.5.12 ESV
The whole of life is opportunity to choose our response to trial and suffering. Life always comes to us in the little choices. This makes it possible for choice not circumstance to determine what we embrace with our heart. Because of this, we may bitterly or joyfully walk life’s twists and turns. The apostle assured us that all who name Christ would suffer persecution. And, when persecution comes, we always have before us the power to rejoice and be in the company of the glad or to complain and be in the company of the sad. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
The whole of life is opportunity to choose our response to trial and suffering. Life always comes to us in the little choices. This makes it possible for choice not circumstance to determine what we embrace with our heart. Because of this, we may bitterly or joyfully walk life’s twists and turns. The apostle assured us that all who name Christ would suffer persecution. And, when persecution comes, we always have before us the power to rejoice and be in the company of the glad or to complain and be in the company of the sad. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, November 13, 2009
The greatest complement a demon can give you is persecution.
"Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
Why would we or should we regard persecution as a blessing. Well, the Scriptures suggest several reasons. One is the affirmation by our enemies and I mean the enemies of unrighteousness, that we are somehow a threat to the kingdom of darkness. This may explain one reason why they oppose us though not always. Second, persecution in Father’s hands helps to purge from us the remnants of that kingdom that remain in us. And third, we learn joyful contentment accepting from God not only our present circumstance but also the future promise of His reward in Glory. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Why would we or should we regard persecution as a blessing. Well, the Scriptures suggest several reasons. One is the affirmation by our enemies and I mean the enemies of unrighteousness, that we are somehow a threat to the kingdom of darkness. This may explain one reason why they oppose us though not always. Second, persecution in Father’s hands helps to purge from us the remnants of that kingdom that remain in us. And third, we learn joyful contentment accepting from God not only our present circumstance but also the future promise of His reward in Glory. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
The greatest complement a demon can give you is persecution.
"Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
Why would we or should we regard persecution as a blessing. Well, the Scriptures suggest several reasons. One is the affirmation by our enemies and I mean the enemies of unrighteousness, that we are somehow a threat to the kingdom of darkness. This may explain one reason why they oppose us though not always. Second, persecution in Father’s hands helps to purge from us the remnants of that kingdom that remain in us. And third, we learn joyful contentment accepting from God not only our present circumstance but also the future promise of His reward in Glory. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Why would we or should we regard persecution as a blessing. Well, the Scriptures suggest several reasons. One is the affirmation by our enemies and I mean the enemies of unrighteousness, that we are somehow a threat to the kingdom of darkness. This may explain one reason why they oppose us though not always. Second, persecution in Father’s hands helps to purge from us the remnants of that kingdom that remain in us. And third, we learn joyful contentment accepting from God not only our present circumstance but also the future promise of His reward in Glory. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, November 12, 2009
“Opposition may become sweet to a man when he has christened it persecution” George Eliot
"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.10 ESV
I am sure these words have been used by people on both sides of the same hostility. I am also sure there are times when people believe they are suffering for the Lord when actually they are suffering for being foolish. I am sure I have misapplied these words to my on interactions. But let me be equally certain, if not more so, that when I do indeed suffer for Kingdom purposes, blessed happiness will be its fruit. The difference usually lies in whether our focus is on the persecution or the privilege of being identified with Christ. 11/8/2009 Conversations Within ts
I am sure these words have been used by people on both sides of the same hostility. I am also sure there are times when people believe they are suffering for the Lord when actually they are suffering for being foolish. I am sure I have misapplied these words to my on interactions. But let me be equally certain, if not more so, that when I do indeed suffer for Kingdom purposes, blessed happiness will be its fruit. The difference usually lies in whether our focus is on the persecution or the privilege of being identified with Christ. 11/8/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Opposition may become sweet to a man when he has christened it persecution” George Eliot
"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.10 ESV
I am sure these words have been used by people on both sides of the same hostility. I am also sure there are times when people believe they are suffering for the Lord when actually they are suffering for being foolish. I am sure I have misapplied these words to my on interactions. But let me be equally certain, if not more so, that when I do indeed suffer for Kingdom purposes, blessed happiness will be its fruit. The difference usually lies in whether our focus is on the persecution or the privilege of being identified with Christ. 11/8/2009 Conversations Within ts
I am sure these words have been used by people on both sides of the same hostility. I am also sure there are times when people believe they are suffering for the Lord when actually they are suffering for being foolish. I am sure I have misapplied these words to my on interactions. But let me be equally certain, if not more so, that when I do indeed suffer for Kingdom purposes, blessed happiness will be its fruit. The difference usually lies in whether our focus is on the persecution or the privilege of being identified with Christ. 11/8/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
The steps to peace are best seen when they are modeled rather than being pointed out.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Mt.5.9 ESV
It is often easier to see the path to peace when you are a third party than to see it when you are a member of first party. It is even easier to point out peaceful steps in the second person such as “you should, you need, you might try,” than it is in the first person, “I should, I need or I might try.” But it is only when we attend to peace in the first person that we are able to make peace in the second. And, it just may be that modeling peace is not only the best approach to assist others, it might be the only approach that will help at all. 11/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
It is often easier to see the path to peace when you are a third party than to see it when you are a member of first party. It is even easier to point out peaceful steps in the second person such as “you should, you need, you might try,” than it is in the first person, “I should, I need or I might try.” But it is only when we attend to peace in the first person that we are able to make peace in the second. And, it just may be that modeling peace is not only the best approach to assist others, it might be the only approach that will help at all. 11/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
The steps to peace are best seen when they are modeled rather than being pointed out.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Mt.5.9 ESV
It is often easier to see the path to peace when you are a third party than to see it when you are a member of first party. It is even easier to point out peaceful steps in the second person such as “you should, you need, you might try,” than it is in the first person, “I should, I need or I might try.” But it is only when we attend to peace in the first person that we are able to make peace in the second. And, it just may be that modeling peace is not only the best approach to assist others, it might be the only approach that will help at all. 11/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
It is often easier to see the path to peace when you are a third party than to see it when you are a member of first party. It is even easier to point out peaceful steps in the second person such as “you should, you need, you might try,” than it is in the first person, “I should, I need or I might try.” But it is only when we attend to peace in the first person that we are able to make peace in the second. And, it just may be that modeling peace is not only the best approach to assist others, it might be the only approach that will help at all. 11/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
“As selfishness and complaint pervert and cloud the mind, so love with its joy clears and sharpens the vision.” Helen Keller
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
In my efforts to be sincere before God, I fear that I may have crossed the line of being too familiar with Him. What I mean is that I may have assumed certain aspects of a close friendship that do not really exist, at lease on my part. God has been a good friend to me, I not so to Him. I am not sure that the un-pure heart is forbidden to see God; it may just be that all the impurities in it have clouded our vision so that we can’t, at least in this place. 11/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
In my efforts to be sincere before God, I fear that I may have crossed the line of being too familiar with Him. What I mean is that I may have assumed certain aspects of a close friendship that do not really exist, at lease on my part. God has been a good friend to me, I not so to Him. I am not sure that the un-pure heart is forbidden to see God; it may just be that all the impurities in it have clouded our vision so that we can’t, at least in this place. 11/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
“As selfishness and complaint pervert and cloud the mind, so love with its joy clears and sharpens the vision.” Helen Keller
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
In my efforts to be sincere before God, I fear that I may have crossed the line of being too familiar with Him. What I mean is that I may have assumed certain aspects of a close friendship that do not really exist, at lease on my part. God has been a good friend to me, I not so to Him. I am not sure that the un-pure heart is forbidden to see God; it may just be that all the impurities in it have clouded our vision so that we can’t, at least in this place. 11/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
In my efforts to be sincere before God, I fear that I may have crossed the line of being too familiar with Him. What I mean is that I may have assumed certain aspects of a close friendship that do not really exist, at lease on my part. God has been a good friend to me, I not so to Him. I am not sure that the un-pure heart is forbidden to see God; it may just be that all the impurities in it have clouded our vision so that we can’t, at least in this place. 11/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, November 7, 2009
“May God have mercy upon my enemies, because I won't.” General George S. Patton
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” Mt.5.7 ESV
When I show mercy to another, I always think of the mercies I have received but I also think about the mercies I hope God will continue to give. If we expect mercy, we should certainly be gracious in giving it. But consider for a moment the greatness of God’s mercy. When we show mercy to another, we often draw upon the knowledge that we too need it. But God needs no mercy. We He extends it; it isn’t because He messed up and mercy was shown to Him. His mercy flows wholly from His goodness and for that He is to be uniquely praised. Praise the Lord, for His mercies endures forever. 11/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
When I show mercy to another, I always think of the mercies I have received but I also think about the mercies I hope God will continue to give. If we expect mercy, we should certainly be gracious in giving it. But consider for a moment the greatness of God’s mercy. When we show mercy to another, we often draw upon the knowledge that we too need it. But God needs no mercy. We He extends it; it isn’t because He messed up and mercy was shown to Him. His mercy flows wholly from His goodness and for that He is to be uniquely praised. Praise the Lord, for His mercies endures forever. 11/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
“May God have mercy upon my enemies, because I won't.” General George S. Patton
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” Mt.5.7 ESV
When I show mercy to another, I always think of the mercies I have received but I also think about the mercies I hope God will continue to give. If we expect mercy, we should certainly be gracious in giving it. But consider for a moment the greatness of God’s mercy. When we show mercy to another, we often draw upon the knowledge that we too need it. But God needs no mercy. We He extends it; it isn’t because He messed up and mercy was shown to Him. His mercy flows wholly from His goodness and for that He is to be uniquely praised. Praise the Lord, for His mercies endures forever. 11/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
When I show mercy to another, I always think of the mercies I have received but I also think about the mercies I hope God will continue to give. If we expect mercy, we should certainly be gracious in giving it. But consider for a moment the greatness of God’s mercy. When we show mercy to another, we often draw upon the knowledge that we too need it. But God needs no mercy. We He extends it; it isn’t because He messed up and mercy was shown to Him. His mercy flows wholly from His goodness and for that He is to be uniquely praised. Praise the Lord, for His mercies endures forever. 11/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, November 6, 2009
If junk food is the devil, then a sweet orange is as scripture. Audrey Foris
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Mt.5.6 ESV
It seems to me that dissatisfaction with one’s self may very be one of the steps that lead us to hunger for righteousness. But there are other important attitudes and actions if we are to be truly healed. We must not want to be different solely because we don’t like ourselves. We ay start out that way but we must want to be made right for the right reasons and for that we need grace. In grace we are taught not only to hate evil but also to love all that is good, is I may play on familiar words, to be for goodness sake. This of course begins when we love the Source of goodness. And, we may expect that learning to love what is wholesome will take time for people who have long been addicted to junk food. 11/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
It seems to me that dissatisfaction with one’s self may very be one of the steps that lead us to hunger for righteousness. But there are other important attitudes and actions if we are to be truly healed. We must not want to be different solely because we don’t like ourselves. We ay start out that way but we must want to be made right for the right reasons and for that we need grace. In grace we are taught not only to hate evil but also to love all that is good, is I may play on familiar words, to be for goodness sake. This of course begins when we love the Source of goodness. And, we may expect that learning to love what is wholesome will take time for people who have long been addicted to junk food. 11/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
If junk food is the devil, then a sweet orange is as scripture. Audrey Foris
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Mt.5.6 ESV
It seems to me that dissatisfaction with one’s self may very be one of the steps that lead us to hunger for righteousness. But there are other important attitudes and actions if we are to be truly healed. We must not want to be different solely because we don’t like ourselves. We ay start out that way but we must want to be made right for the right reasons and for that we need grace. In grace we are taught not only to hate evil but also to love all that is good, is I may play on familiar words, to be for goodness sake. This of course begins when we love the Source of goodness. And, we may expect that learning to love what is wholesome will take time for people who have long been addicted to junk food. 11/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
It seems to me that dissatisfaction with one’s self may very be one of the steps that lead us to hunger for righteousness. But there are other important attitudes and actions if we are to be truly healed. We must not want to be different solely because we don’t like ourselves. We ay start out that way but we must want to be made right for the right reasons and for that we need grace. In grace we are taught not only to hate evil but also to love all that is good, is I may play on familiar words, to be for goodness sake. This of course begins when we love the Source of goodness. And, we may expect that learning to love what is wholesome will take time for people who have long been addicted to junk food. 11/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, November 5, 2009
“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.” C. S. Lewis“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at
"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Mt.5.5 ESV
There are two sorts of surrendered spirits. The first surrenders because they are defeated but they want nothing of surrender. Indeed, if they were able they would turn and seek to fight again or else escape. The second and this is the meek about which Jesus speaks, are those who willfully surrender. They too are defeated. The difference is that they have come to realize that life submitted to God’s rule offers greater freedom than they ever had under the tyranny of their own rule. In the end, every knee will bow. The first sort will be handed over to what they want, but held in a place where they can do no harm to any but themselves. The meek will be set free from the bondage of their own will, only to given it back in glory as its master. 11/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
There are two sorts of surrendered spirits. The first surrenders because they are defeated but they want nothing of surrender. Indeed, if they were able they would turn and seek to fight again or else escape. The second and this is the meek about which Jesus speaks, are those who willfully surrender. They too are defeated. The difference is that they have come to realize that life submitted to God’s rule offers greater freedom than they ever had under the tyranny of their own rule. In the end, every knee will bow. The first sort will be handed over to what they want, but held in a place where they can do no harm to any but themselves. The meek will be set free from the bondage of their own will, only to given it back in glory as its master. 11/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.” C. S. Lewis“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at
"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Mt.5.5 ESV
There are two sorts of surrendered spirits. The first surrenders because they are defeated but they want nothing of surrender. Indeed, if they were able they would turn and seek to fight again or else escape. The second and this is the meek about which Jesus speaks, are those who willfully surrender. They too are defeated. The difference is that they have come to realize that life submitted to God’s rule offers greater freedom than they ever had under the tyranny of their own rule. In the end, every knee will bow. The first sort will be handed over to what they want, but held in a place where they can do no harm to any but themselves. The meek will be set free from the bondage of their own will, only to given it back in glory as its master. 11/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
There are two sorts of surrendered spirits. The first surrenders because they are defeated but they want nothing of surrender. Indeed, if they were able they would turn and seek to fight again or else escape. The second and this is the meek about which Jesus speaks, are those who willfully surrender. They too are defeated. The difference is that they have come to realize that life submitted to God’s rule offers greater freedom than they ever had under the tyranny of their own rule. In the end, every knee will bow. The first sort will be handed over to what they want, but held in a place where they can do no harm to any but themselves. The meek will be set free from the bondage of their own will, only to given it back in glory as its master. 11/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Grief is itself a medicine. ~William Cowper
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Mt5.4 ESV
To believe in one’s spiritual poverty is reason enough to mourn. But, godly sorrow knows that we fail to see our sin properly unless we see that our sin is against God. Did not David pray, “Against thee and thee only have I sinned.” It is not enough to weep over our sins because we have known personal defeat but we should weep because have failed God. True sorrow does not lapse into self-pity like Judas, who hung himself in shame. No, godly sorrow weeps because we know we have grieved God and it leads us to repent like Peter. I should think it a grace anytime we are able to weep over our transgressions when we see them though the eyes of the one we have offended. 11/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
To believe in one’s spiritual poverty is reason enough to mourn. But, godly sorrow knows that we fail to see our sin properly unless we see that our sin is against God. Did not David pray, “Against thee and thee only have I sinned.” It is not enough to weep over our sins because we have known personal defeat but we should weep because have failed God. True sorrow does not lapse into self-pity like Judas, who hung himself in shame. No, godly sorrow weeps because we know we have grieved God and it leads us to repent like Peter. I should think it a grace anytime we are able to weep over our transgressions when we see them though the eyes of the one we have offended. 11/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
Grief is itself a medicine. ~William Cowper
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Mt5.4 ESV
To believe in one’s spiritual poverty is reason enough to mourn. But, godly sorrow knows that we fail to see our sin properly unless we see that our sin is against God. Did not David pray, “Against thee and thee only have I sinned.” It is not enough to weep over our sins because we have known personal defeat but we should weep because have failed God. True sorrow does not lapse into self-pity like Judas, who hung himself in shame. No, godly sorrow weeps because we know we have grieved God and it leads us to repent like Peter. I should think it a grace anytime we are able to weep over our transgressions when we see them though the eyes of the one we have offended. 11/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
To believe in one’s spiritual poverty is reason enough to mourn. But, godly sorrow knows that we fail to see our sin properly unless we see that our sin is against God. Did not David pray, “Against thee and thee only have I sinned.” It is not enough to weep over our sins because we have known personal defeat but we should weep because have failed God. True sorrow does not lapse into self-pity like Judas, who hung himself in shame. No, godly sorrow weeps because we know we have grieved God and it leads us to repent like Peter. I should think it a grace anytime we are able to weep over our transgressions when we see them though the eyes of the one we have offended. 11/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
“Christianity is one beggar telling another beggar where he found bread.” D. T. Niles
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.3
The first words of the first known public message of Jesus tell us the first thing we must understand if we desire a relationship with God. In short, we are spiritually homeless, morally impoverished beggars and Jesus is telling us that we are in a position to discover true happiness when we not only know this but we actually beg for mercy and grace. A beggar has no pride. They only know that unless someone takes pity on them they will perish. Here is the first thing we must realize about ourselves if we are to have any relationship with God. One does not seek a physician if they do not believe they are sick. 11/1/2009 Conversations Within ts
The first words of the first known public message of Jesus tell us the first thing we must understand if we desire a relationship with God. In short, we are spiritually homeless, morally impoverished beggars and Jesus is telling us that we are in a position to discover true happiness when we not only know this but we actually beg for mercy and grace. A beggar has no pride. They only know that unless someone takes pity on them they will perish. Here is the first thing we must realize about ourselves if we are to have any relationship with God. One does not seek a physician if they do not believe they are sick. 11/1/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Christianity is one beggar telling another beggar where he found bread.” D. T. Niles
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.3
The first words of the first known public message of Jesus tell us the first thing we must understand if we desire a relationship with God. In short, we are spiritually homeless, morally impoverished beggars and Jesus is telling us that we are in a position to discover true happiness when we not only know this but we actually beg for mercy and grace. A beggar has no pride. They only know that unless someone takes pity on them they will perish. Here is the first thing we must realize about ourselves if we are to have any relationship with God. One does not seek a physician if they do not believe they are sick. 11/1/2009 Conversations Within ts
The first words of the first known public message of Jesus tell us the first thing we must understand if we desire a relationship with God. In short, we are spiritually homeless, morally impoverished beggars and Jesus is telling us that we are in a position to discover true happiness when we not only know this but we actually beg for mercy and grace. A beggar has no pride. They only know that unless someone takes pity on them they will perish. Here is the first thing we must realize about ourselves if we are to have any relationship with God. One does not seek a physician if they do not believe they are sick. 11/1/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, November 2, 2009
“E.F. Hutton says….”
“And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:” Mt.5.2
One popular translation leaves out the phrase, “And he opened his mouth.” The translators probably thought that it redundant because one usually opens their mouth when they teach. But I think Matthew was being deliberately redundant when he recorded these opening words of the Sermon on the Mount. I believe he was trying to capture the magical atmosphere surrounding Jesus. He was saying that every head was turned and every eye was fixed on the very lips of this unique teacher. They were hung on his every word and so should we be. Jesus once asked His disciples if they really wanted to be his followers, Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” 10/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
One popular translation leaves out the phrase, “And he opened his mouth.” The translators probably thought that it redundant because one usually opens their mouth when they teach. But I think Matthew was being deliberately redundant when he recorded these opening words of the Sermon on the Mount. I believe he was trying to capture the magical atmosphere surrounding Jesus. He was saying that every head was turned and every eye was fixed on the very lips of this unique teacher. They were hung on his every word and so should we be. Jesus once asked His disciples if they really wanted to be his followers, Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” 10/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
“E.F. Hutton says….”
“And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:” Mt.5.2
One popular translation leaves out the phrase, “And he opened his mouth.” The translators probably thought that it redundant because one usually opens their mouth when they teach. But I think Matthew was being deliberately redundant when he recorded these opening words of the Sermon on the Mount. I believe he was trying to capture the magical atmosphere surrounding Jesus. He was saying that every head was turned and every eye was fixed on the very lips of this unique teacher. They were hung on his every word and so should we be. Jesus once asked His disciples if they really wanted to be his followers, Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” 10/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
One popular translation leaves out the phrase, “And he opened his mouth.” The translators probably thought that it redundant because one usually opens their mouth when they teach. But I think Matthew was being deliberately redundant when he recorded these opening words of the Sermon on the Mount. I believe he was trying to capture the magical atmosphere surrounding Jesus. He was saying that every head was turned and every eye was fixed on the very lips of this unique teacher. They were hung on his every word and so should we be. Jesus once asked His disciples if they really wanted to be his followers, Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” 10/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
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